SUPERStudy: Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) Infarction

Introduction Middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction is the most common type of ischemic stroke, resulting from blockage of the MCA, which supplies large portions of the cerebral cortex involved in motor, sensory, and language function. MCA strokes cause significant morbidity and are considered neurological emergencies requiring immediate management. Etiology Atherosclerosis and thromboembolism (most common cause): […]

SUPERStudy: Erythema Nodosum (EN)

Introduction Erythema nodosum (EN) is an acute inflammatory condition characterized by painful, red, tender nodules or plaques, most commonly found on the anterior shins. It is often a reactional process associated with systemic diseases, infections, or medications. Etiology Infectious Causes: Bacterial: Streptococcal infections (most common), tuberculosis, Yersinia, Brucella. Viral: Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis B, HIV. Fungal: […]

Roseola Infantum (Sixth Disease)

Introduction Roseola infantum, also known as sixth disease, is a common viral exanthem of early childhood characterized by a high fever followed by a sudden rash once the fever resolves. It is typically a self-limiting illness and primarily affects infants and young children.Its alternative name, exanthem subitum, means “sudden” rash. Etiology Caused by human herpesvirus […]

SUPERStudy: Stress Incontinence

Introduction: The two main types of urinary incontinence are stress incontinence and urge incontinence. Stress incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine that occurs during activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or physical exertion. It is caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles and/or insufficient urethral sphincter function, leading to poor urethral […]

SUPERStudy: Renal artery stenosis

Introduction: Renal artery stenosis is the narrowing of one or both renal arteries or their branches, which may ultimately lead to kidney failure and hypertension.  Etiology: The most common cause of renal artery stenosis is atherosclerosis followed by fibromuscular dysplasia.   Atherosclerotic: mostly men; Older patients; 80 – 90% of patients  Fibromuscular: mostly women; Young Caucasian […]

SUPERStudy: Minimal Change Disease (MCD) 

Introduction Minimal Change Disease (MCD) is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children and is characterized by podocyte foot process effacement on electron microscopy without significant findings on light microscopy. It is often steroid-responsive and has a good prognosis. Etiology Idiopathic (most common) Secondary causes: Medications (NSAIDs, lithium) Malignancies (Hodgkin’s lymphoma) Infections (EBV, […]

SUPERStudy: Pyelonephritis

Introduction Pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection of the kidney parenchyma and renal pelvis, often originating from an ascending urinary tract infection (UTI). It is classified into: Acute pyelonephritis: Severe, symptomatic infection. Chronic pyelonephritis: Associated with long-term complications such as renal scarring. Etiology Primary Pathogens: Gram-negative bacteria are the most common culprits, including: Escherichia coli (E. […]

SUPERStudy: H2 Receptor Blockers

Introduction: H2 receptor blockers are a class of medications that reduce stomach acid production by blocking histamine type 2 (H2) receptors on the gastric parietal cells. They are commonly used to treat acid-related gastrointestinal conditions such as ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and dyspepsia. Name of the Drug Class: H2 Receptor Antagonists (H2RAs) Drugs in […]

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Introduction Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition characterized by the retrograde flow of stomach contents into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation. Persistent acid exposure can lead to complications, including esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Most common digestive disease. Types: Erosive esophagitis: Visible breaks in the distal esophageal mucosa on […]

Adenomyomatosis of the Gallbladder

Introduction Adenomyomatosis of the gallbladder is a benign, non-inflammatory condition characterized by hyperplastic changes in the gallbladder wall, including thickening and the formation of intramural diverticula (Rokitansky-Aschoff sinuses). It is often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally on imaging. Etiology The exact cause of adenomyomatosis is unknown, but it is associated with chronic gallbladder inflammation and gallstones […]